In a significant move aimed at easing public hardship, the Manipur state government has officially revoked the temporary suspension of mobile internet and data services, including VPN services, in five districts. The affected areas—Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur—will now see the resumption of connectivity with immediate effect, following a comprehensive review of the prevailing law and order situation.
The suspension of internet services was initially imposed on April 7 as a preventive security measure during a period of volatility. While intended as a short-term intervention, the restrictions were periodically extended to maintain stability in the region. Although limited relaxation for specific broadband services, such as Internet Leased Lines (ILL) and Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH), had been permitted under conditional access, the latest order marks a full restoration of mobile data services.
Officials stated that the decision to lift the curbs was driven by the necessity to address the widespread disruption caused by the prolonged shutdown. The unavailability of reliable internet had severely impacted the functionality of critical institutions and daily life. Key sectors, including the High Court, district courts, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and various administrative offices, had faced significant operational challenges. Furthermore, the shutdown hindered essential digital-dependent services such as financial transactions, taxation filing, online utility payments, electricity and LPG booking systems, and remote working arrangements.
Invoking provisions under Rule 3 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecommunication Services Rules, 2024, the Governor ordered the immediate revocation of all restrictions. This decision was reached in the public interest, acknowledging that the emergent circumstances necessitating the initial shutdown had been sufficiently addressed.
As services return to normal, the state government has issued an appeal to the citizens of the affected districts. Authorities have urged the public to exercise restraint and responsibility while utilizing internet services and social media platforms. The government cautioned that any misuse or inflammatory activity online could lead to the reimposition of restrictive measures in the future, emphasizing the need for collective social responsibility to maintain peace.
